As 2025 draws to a close, residents across Kenya are urged to prepare for significant rainfall and potential flooding, with a heavy rainfall alert issued by the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) for the days leading up to the New Year.
The advisory, released on Friday, December 26, warns of moderate to heavy rains expected to affect several parts of the country from Friday afternoon through the early hours of December 30.
The KMD, under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, indicates a moderate probability of occurrence for these weather events. Initially, parts of the southeastern lowlands are forecast to receive over 20 millimeters of rain within 24 hours on December 27.
The intensity is projected to increase on December 28 and 29, spreading to the highlands east and west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, and southern coastal regions, with rainfall amounts potentially exceeding 30 millimeters.
The intensity is expected to ease on December 30.
Thirteen counties have also been identified as areas of concern: Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, Narok, Kajiado, Makueni, Machakos, Nairobi, Kericho, Bomet, and the southern parts of Kitui, Taita Taveta, and Kwale.
Residents in these areas are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures against potential flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone zones as heavy downpours could disrupt transport, damage infrastructure, and pose safety risks.
The Kenya Red Cross has also urged the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
